What are the responsibilities and job description for the Program Communications Administrator, Purdue Military Research Institute (PMRI) position at Purdue University?
Job Summary
The Purdue Military Research Institute (PMRI) is seeking a creative, charismatic, energetic, and highly organized team member to lead outreach efforts, engage with our vibrant community of students and alumni, and elevate the visibility of our groundbreaking initiatives. This role is ideal for a dynamic communicator who thrives in fast-paced environments where innovation, service, and storytelling intersect. The successful candidate will play a key role in building lasting relationships, driving continuous improvement of PMRI, supporting student professional development, and strengthening connections across our network.
Join one of the nation’s premier research institutions and a transformative program team at the intersection of military service, advanced education, and cutting-edge innovation. The Purdue Military Research Institute (PMRI) plays a pivotal role in expanding the reach and impact of PMRI across all branches of the U.S. military, while fostering strategic partnerships and supporting the academic and professional success of military officers pursuing graduate degrees at Purdue. PMRI is the largest population of military officers pursuing graduate degrees at any university worldwide (see https://engineering.purdue.edu/PMRI). The population of officers at Purdue currently exceeds 100 students pursuing PhDs and MS degrees. With you, we intent to grow this number to build a population of unique military problem solvers.
What You'll Be Doing:
Strategic Communications & Outreach
o Serve as the primary liaison to PMRI alumni, current students, and prospective applicants.
o Develop and execute compelling communication strategies across email, social media, newsletters, and web platforms.
o Craft engaging stories that highlight student achievements, alumni impact, and program milestones
Event Planning & Coordination
o Organize and manage PMRI’s monthly seminar series, including speaker outreach, logistics, promotion, and follow-up.
o Support the planning and execution of special events, workshops, and networking opportunities.
Program Development & Support
o Assist in the design, implementation, and management of new initiatives that enhance student engagement and alumni relations.
o Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure smooth program operations.
Data Management & Analysis
o Maintain accurate records of program data, communications metrics, and event outcomes.
o Analyze trends to inform strategic decisions and improve outreach effectiveness.
About Us:
The College of Engineering at Purdue University is among the best and largest Engineering schools in the world. With nearly 16,000 engineering students and more than 500 tenure track faculty in the college, this position has ample opportunity to have an impact at one of the world’s most influential universities.
For more information about our department, please visit:
- College of Engineering, Purdue University https://engineering.purdue.edu/Engr
- External Recognitions Program https://engineering.purdue.edu/Engr/People/Awards
- College of Engineering's Social Media https://engineering.purdue.edu/Engr/AboutUs/social
What We're Looking For:
Education and Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Event Management, or a related field 5 years of experience in communications, program coordination, or event planning
Skills needed:
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong interpersonal skills with a charismatic and engaging presence.
- Proven ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and digital communication tools (e.g., Mailchimp, Canva, social media platforms).
- Experience with data tracking and analysis using Excel or similar tools.
Who We Are:
Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.
Additional Information:
- Purdue’s benefits summary https://www.purdue.edu/hr/Benefits/
- Purdue will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
- A background check will be required for employment in this position
- FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible For Overtime)
- Retirement Eligibility: Defined Contribution Waiting Period
Career Stream
Compensation Information:
Professional 2
Pay Band S060
Job Code#20002086
Link to Purdue University's Compensation Guidelines: https://www.purdue.edu/hr/mngcareer/compguidelines/index.php
EOE
Purdue University is an EO/EA University